Clinical inquiries. What is the best way to diagnose a suspected rotator cuff tear? J Fam Pract 2006 Jul;55(7):621-4
Date
07/11/2006Pubmed ID
16822450Scopus ID
2-s2.0-33746049437 (requires institutional sign-in at Scopus site) 8 CitationsAbstract
The evaluation of a suspected rotator cuff tear should start with a history and a clinical exam of the shoulder (strength of recommendation [SOR]: B, based on a systematic review of cohort studies). Three clinical test results in particular--supraspinatus weakness, weakness of external rotation, and impingement--or 2 positive tests for a patient older than 60 years were highly predictive of rotator cuff tear (SOR: B, based on individual prospective study). Either magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or ultrasound can confirm a possible full-thickness tear (SOR: B, based on a systematic review of cohort studies). If a patient has an implantable device prohibiting MRI imaging, conventional arthrography is an alternative (SOR: A, individual randomized controlled trial). Suspected partial-thickness tears are best verified with an ultrasound (SOR: B, based on a systematic review of cohort studies).
Author List
Diehr S, Ison D, Jamieson B, Oh RAuthor
Sabina Diehr MD Professor in the Family Medicine department at Medical College of WisconsinMESH terms used to index this publication - Major topics in bold
HumansMagnetic Resonance Imaging
Physical Examination
Predictive Value of Tests
Rotator Cuff Injuries
Tendon Injuries
Ultrasonography